10 Worst Films to Put on During Family Holiday Time
The holidays are all about gathering with loved ones, sharing laughs, and enjoying a good holiday movie together. But not every film fits the family-friendly, feel-good mold we crave this time of year. Some are too intense, awkward, or downright inappropriate for cozy group viewing.
While the following films are great in their own right and have earned their fans, they’re best left off the playlist during holiday family time. Save these for another occasion and opt for heartwarming classics to keep the holiday vibes merry and bright.
Bad Santa (2003)
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Bad Santa is a bold and hilarious take on holiday comedies, with Billy Bob Thornton delivering an unforgettable performance as a criminal posing as a mall Santa. The humor is sharp and dark, which is part of the film’s charm for audiences. However, the crude jokes and mature themes make it a tough watch for family gatherings.
Die Hard (1988)
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There’s no denying that Die Hard is an action classic, with Bruce Willis as the iconic John McClane battling terrorists on Christmas Eve. The film is packed with thrilling action sequences and clever dialogue, making it a must-see for fans of the genre. However, despite the Christmas backdrop, the explosions, gunfights, and intense scenes don’t exactly create a warm and cozy holiday mood.
Krampus (2015)
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Krampus is a unique holiday film that combines horror and comedy, telling the story of a family visited by a dark, mythical creature that punishes the naughty. It’s creative, suspenseful, and even funny at times, making it a fun pick for fans of spooky stories. However, its scary visuals and eerie tone might frighten kids or put a damper on the festive mood.
Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
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Directed by Stanley Kubrick, Eyes Wide Shut is a mysterious film about relationships, secrets, and trust. Its thought-provoking themes and artistic direction have earned it critical praise. However, the film’s content, slow pace, and dark undertones don’t align with the lighthearted and joyful vibe families often look for during the holidays.
Requiem for a Dream (2000)
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Requiem for a Dream is a deeply emotional movie that explores the struggles of addiction. It’s incredibly well-made and widely praised for its storytelling and performances. However, the film is very heavy and can leave viewers feeling unsettled. Its themes of despair and loss make it the opposite of uplifting, which is why it’s not a great choice for a family holiday watch.
The Night Before (2015)
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This holiday comedy starring Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Anthony Mackie is wild, funny, and full of over-the-top moments. It’s packed with laughs and heart, making it an entertaining watch for adults. However, its R-rated humor and crude jokes make it a bit too edgy for family movie night. It’s better suited for a holiday get-together with friends who enjoy a more outrageous sense of humor.
Gremlins (1984)
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A mix of horror and comedy, Gremlins has become a cult classic over the years. The mischievous creatures and holiday setting make it a fun and unique choice for fans of the genre. However, some of its darker and scarier scenes can be too intense for younger viewers.
The Family Stone (2005)
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The Family Stone tells the story of a big and chaotic family gathering for the holidays, with an excellent cast that includes Diane Keaton, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Luke Wilson. The film has moments of humor and heartfelt emotion, but it also includes plenty of family tension and awkward situations that might feel uncomfortable to watch together on a family get-together.
Uncut Gems (2019)
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Adam Sandler delivers a career-defining performance in Uncut Gems, a gripping thriller about a jeweler who gets caught up in high-stakes gambling. The film’s fast pace and constant tension keep viewers on the edge of their seats. It’s the stressful plot and intense energy that don’t match the calm, cozy mood of the holidays. It’s a fantastic movie, but one that’s better enjoyed during a time when you’re not trying to unwind with family.
The Hateful Eight (2015)
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Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight is well-acclaimed for its talented cast and sharp dialogue. The snowy setting might seem fitting for the season, but the film’s graphic violence, dark themes, and tense atmosphere make it a tough fit for family holiday time. It’s an excellent movie for fans of Tarantino’s style, but its intense tone is far from festive.
A Clockwork Orange (1971)
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This is a true classic in cinema history. It’s visually unique and has a deep message about human nature and society. However, the story includes some dark and disturbing scenes that can make viewers uncomfortable. While it’s a must-watch for movie lovers, it doesn’t match the lighthearted, family-focused vibe we typically want during the holidays.
Hereditary (2018)
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Widely regarded as one of the best modern horror films, Hereditary is intense, scary, and unforgettable. The acting and storytelling are excellent, but it’s packed with creepy visuals and heavy emotions that might leave everyone feeling a little too shaken. This film is a perfect choice for fans of horror who enjoy being scared—but it’s not the kind of movie you’d want to put on during a family evening filled with warmth, laughter, and holiday cheer.
The Shining (1980)
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This horror classic is one of the greatest films ever made, and Jack Nicholson’s performance is legendary. But its isolated setting, eerie music, and terrifying moments don’t fit the happy and relaxed mood of the holidays. This is an excellent film for suspense fans, but it’s best saved for a different time of year, like Halloween.
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
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This fast-paced movie is packed with energy, humor, and incredible performances, especially from Leonardo DiCaprio. It’s fun to watch for its over-the-top scenes and wild storytelling. It does have a strong language and explicit content that make it uncomfortable to watch with family, especially if kids are around. It’s a great choice for a night in with friends, but not the best option for a family holiday movie night.
The Witch (2015)
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The Witch is beautifully made and praised for its unique atmosphere and sense of mystery. It’s a slow-building story that creates a lot of tension and keeps you guessing. While fans of eerie films love it, its dark tone and supernatural themes do not add to the joy and warmth of the holidays. This one is best enjoyed on a quiet night, preferably in the fall, when you’re in the mood for something spooky and thought-provoking.